Low temperature electronic vaporization device and methods

ABSTRACT

Low temperature electronic vaporization devices and method are described herein for emulating smoking wherein the devices generate an aerosol for inhalation by a subject by heating a viscous material that can have a tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/837,438, filed Mar. 15, 2013, titled LOW TEMPERATURE ELECTRONICVAPORIZATION DEVICE AND METHODS″, which is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/587,416 filed Aug. 16, 2012, titled“LOW TEMPERATURE ELECTRONIC VAPORIZATION DEVICE AND METHODS”, now U.S.Pat. No. 9,408,416, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/524,308, filed Aug. 16, 2011, titled “LOW TEMPERATUREELECTRONIC VAPORIZATION DEVICE AND METHODS”, each of which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of tobacco products and the harmful side effects of smokingtobacco continue to gain increasing attention worldwide. As moreregulations come into effect regarding smoking in the work place or inpublic, interest in developing alternative products is growingsignificantly. One method of reducing the harmful side effects ofsmoking is to not burn the tobacco products. This is because many of theharmful analytes, such as Hoffman analytes, obtained from smoking arereceived due to the burning of the material.

A difficulty of developing and marketing a device that can deliver anaerosolized tobacco product is catering to the user in terms of visualand physical appeal of use. A device that can be used multiple times toaerosolize a variety of different substances while providing similarsensations to the user as those from smoking, such as visual vapor, aredesirable. A device and product that can aerosolize a tobacco productand reduce Hoffman analytes and mutagenic compounds delivered to a useras compared to smoking are also desirable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided hereincomprising: a mouthpiece, a body; an electronic heater within said bodycomprising a printed circuit board to heat a viscous vaporizablematerial to a generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperatureregulator. The inhalable aerosol can accommodate a pod comprisingparticles that are less than about 2 microns (in their longestdimension—whether length or width or depth) or loose leaf tobacco andother botanicals (no pods).

In one aspect, a resistive heating element and thermistor to monitor andprecisely control vaporization temperature are disclosed for use in adevice for aerosolizing a material. In some embodiments, the heatingelement comprises an electronic circuit with power transistor to drivethe heater. In certain embodiments, the tail of the electronic circuitsolders to a PCB (printed circuit board). In some embodiments, thedevice comprises aerogel insulation to maintain efficiency and lowexposed surface temperature. In certain embodiments, the aerogel is asilica aerogel with reinforcing fibers (e.g., Pyrogel 2250 flexibleaerogel blanket). In some embodiments, the device comprises a singlebutton interface wherein the single button interface provides means foron, off and wake from sleep.

In some embodiments, the electronic heater comprises a polyimide thinfilm (“flex”) printed heater circuit (also or alternatively called aflexible heater circuit). In certain embodiments provide the electronicheater with soldered thermistor element for control loop. In certainembodiments, the device comprises a PID (proportional integralderivative) control loop to control operating temperature.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a magnetic charge connector.In some embodiments, the device comprises time or sensor based standbyactivation to conserve battery power. This may also or alternatively becalled a standby mode. In certain embodiments, sensing means includesaccelerometer or other tile/vibration sensor, capacitive (touch) sensor,or monitoring the thermistor to detect if the heater is being loaded bythe user puffing on the device.

In some embodiments, the heater is a metallic heater wherein the heatercomponent is heat staked, ultrasonic bonded or over-molded into a hightemperature capable plastic component. The processes create a hermeticor dust seal. In some embodiments, a split mouthpiece design isdisclosed for use in a device for aerosolizing a material. The half ofthe split mouthpiece is removable and conforms to contour of the device.In some embodiments, the mouthpiece attaches to the body of the devicewith rare earth magnet. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece attaches tothe body with plastic detent or other similar mechanism. In otherembodiments, the mouthpiece is integrated into the device with a hinge,or other mechanism (e.g., a string, or the like). In certainembodiments, the mouthpiece swivels or slides away to reveal the heatingchamber. In certain embodiments, the mouthpiece is detached fully fromthe attachment mechanism for cleaning or replacement but still links tothe device (“removably captured”)

In another aspect provides an electronic stand-alone vaporizer devicefor use with loose leaf tobacco and/or other botanicals. In someembodiments, the device comprises a mouthpiece that retracts from saiddevice with a push-push mechanism. In some embodiments, the push-pushmechanism also turns the device on via a magnet embedded in themouthpiece and a hall effect sensor on the PCB (printed circuit board).In certain embodiments, the mouthpiece comprises a compression spring, aleaf spring and a stainless steel tube attached to the mouthpiece with acatch groove and a toggle slider. In some embodiments, the devicecomprises a magnetic on/off control using reed or hall effect switch. Incertain embodiments, the magnetic control is integrated into mouthpieceto eliminate additional buttons. In some embodiments, the mouthpieceadapts push-push mechanism for mouthpiece withdrawal and/or retraction.In some embodiments, the device comprises a magnetic lid to covervaporization chamber. In some embodiments, the device comprises athermally conductive shell to distribute excess heat and maintain lowexposed surface temperature. In some embodiments, the device comprises abutton-operated temperature selection with visual, audible indicator,and/or other sensory output (e.g. vibration). In some embodiments, themouthpiece is integrated into the device with a hinge, or othermechanism (e.g., a string, or the like). In some embodiments, thevaporization device comprises a thin wall metal heating chamber. Thinwalls allow for low thermal mass and thus fast startup. In someembodiments, the devices comprise a tilting lid using magnetic or snapattachments for the lid to stay in its closed position to preventaccidental opening. The tilting lid has no visible removal button.

In another aspect provides a device which emulates smoking wherein thedevice generates an aerosol for inhalation by a subject by heating aviscous material containing plant matter to about 150° C. and whereinthe aerosol has a tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract.The viscous material can comprise an aerosol-forming medium that cancomprise at least one of propylene glycol and glycerin to produce avisual aerosol when heated. The viscous material can also comprisetobacco and flavorants.

The device can also deliver an active element to a user that is part ofthe aerosol. The active element can be absorbed in the respiratorytract. The aerosol can comprise particles less than about 2 microns indiameter.

The target temperature for heating the viscous material in the devicecan be about 100° C. to about 200° C. Preferably, the target temperatureis about 150° C., which generates an aerosol.

In another aspect, a method of creating a tactile response in the mouthor respiratory tract is disclosed. The method comprises: deploying asmoke emulating device wherein the device generates a smokeless aerosolhaving a tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract by heating aviscous material containing plant matter contained therein; heating theviscous material to a target temperature; generating an aerosol havingthe tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract from the heatedviscous material; and inhaling the aerosol. The viscous material cancomprise an aerosol-forming medium that can comprise at least one ofpropylene glycol and glycerin to produce a visual aerosol when heated.The viscous material can also comprise at least one of tobacco andflavorants. The device can deliver an active element to a user that ispart of the aerosol. The active element can be absorbed in therespiratory tract

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater comprising aheater circuit, an oven, and a printed circuit board within said body,said electronic heater configured to heat a viscous vaporizable materialand generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator.

In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is split or integrated into thedevice. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece retracts from the devicewith a push-push mechanism.

In some embodiments, the heater circuit is soldered to the heatercircuit board. In some embodiments, the electronic heater comprises aresistive heating element and a thermistor configured monitor andprecisely control vaporization temperature of the viscous vaporizablematerial. In some embodiments, the heater circuit is a thin filmpolyimide heater.

In some embodiments, the electronic heater is sealed by a hermetic ordust seal.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a magnetic control using reedor hall effect switch. In some embodiments, the magnetic control usingreed or hall effect switch is integrated into the mouthpiece.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a magnetic lid.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a thermally conductive shellconfigured to distribute excess heat and configured maintain a lowexposed surface temperature.

In some embodiments, the device comprises time based or sensor basedstandby mode activation. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises anaccelerometer or other tactile/vibration sensor, capacitive (touch)sensor, or a sensor for monitoring the thermistor configured to detectif the heater is being loaded by the user puffing on the device.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a proportional integralderivative (PID) control loop configured to control operatingtemperature.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a thin wall metal heatingchamber.

In some embodiments, the device comprises aerogel insulation. In someembodiments, the aerogel insulation comprises a silica aerogel withreinforcing fibers.

In some embodiments, the heater is thermal pressed, ultrasonic bonded orover-molded into a high temperature capable plastic component. In someembodiments, the heater is heat stated or heat swaged into a hightemperature capable plastic component. In some embodiments, the heateris heat swaged into a high temperature capable plastic component.

In some embodiments, the device further comprise a magnetic chargeconnector configured to connect the device to a charger.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a single button interface.

In some embodiments, the viscous vaporizable material is in a removablepod. In some embodiments, the removable pod comprises particles of theviscous vaporizable material that are less than about 2 microns. In someembodiments, the removable pod comprises the viscous vaporizablematerial consisting essentially of particle sizes that are less thanabout 2 microns.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator and an aerogel insulation.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator and a magnetic chargeconnector.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a battery; a temperature regulator, and time orsensor based standby activation configured to conserve battery power.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a battery; a temperature regulator, and a temperaturecontrol loop.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a battery; a temperature regulator, and a singlebutton interface.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a battery; a temperature regulator; wherein theelectronic heater is sealed by a hermetic or dust seal.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; a vaporization chamber; an electronicheater within said body configured to heat a viscous vaporizablematerial and generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator; anda magnetic lid configured to cover the vaporization chamber.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a thermally conductive shell configured to distributeexcess heat and maintain a low exposed surface temperature; and atemperature regulator.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator; and a push-pushmechanism configured to toggle the mouthpiece between a retracted and an“on” position.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator; and a button-operatedtemperature selection with a visual indicator, an audible indicatorand/or a vibration indicator.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator; and a tilting lid comprisinga magnetic attachment or a snap attachment configured to maintain thelid in its closed position and/or configured to prevent accidentalopening.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator, wherein the mouthpieceis integrated into the device.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater comprising aheater circuit within said body configured to heat a viscous vaporizablematerial and generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator;wherein the heater circuit has low resistance such that a single batteryis capable of powering the device.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each individual publication, patent or patent application wasspecifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A better understanding of the features and advantages of the presentinvention will be obtained by reference to the following detaileddescription that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which theprinciples of the invention are used, and the accompanying drawings ofwhich:

FIG. 1 illustrates a device comprising a single button interface, a LiPobattery, and body outer halves wherein the tail of flexible heatercircuit is soldered to a PCB.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the same embodiment as shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of a device with embodiments of adetachable mouthpiece and a tactile button with LED-illuminated “halo”indicator.

FIG. 4 demonstrates a device of single piece with extruded aluminumouter body wherein the mouthpiece of the device retracts from devicewith a push-push mechanism.

FIG. 5 is a sectional detail view of the device as illustrated in FIG.4.

FIG. 6 shows how the magnetically attached vaporization chamber lidworks.

FIG. 7 shows how to charge the battery by an exemplary battery chargingsource (e.g. a USB charger).

FIG. 8 is a sectional detail view of the device charged by a USBcharger.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention described herein has a wide range of applications forinhalation of an active substance as will be appreciated by persons ofskill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. For example, thedevices, cartridges (i.e. pods), such as disclosed in U.S. applicationSer. No. 11/485,168, systems, kits and methods could be used, forexample, to inhale a tobacco product through the mouth or nose. Thedevices, systems, kits and methods could be used, for example, to inhaleany substance, such as a botanical, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, orany other substance providing a benefit or sensation to an end user.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater comprising aheater circuit, an oven, and a printed circuit board within said body,said electronic heater configured to heat a viscous vaporizable materialand generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator.

In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is split or integrated into thedevice. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece retracts from the devicewith a push-push mechanism.

In some embodiments, the heater circuit is soldered to the heatercircuit board. In some embodiments, the electronic heater comprises aresistive heating element and a thermistor configured monitor andprecisely control vaporization temperature of the viscous vaporizablematerial. In some embodiments, the heater circuit is a thin filmpolyimide heater.

In some embodiments, the electronic heater is sealed by a hermetic ordust seal.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a magnetic control using reedor hall effect switch. In some embodiments, the magnetic control usingreed or hall effect switch is integrated into the mouthpiece.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a magnetic lid.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a thermally conductive shellconfigured to distribute excess heat and configured maintain a lowexposed surface temperature.

In some embodiments, the device comprises time based or sensor basedstandby mode activation. In some embodiments, the sensor comprises anaccelerometer or other tactile/vibration sensor, capacitive (touch)sensor, or a sensor for monitoring the thermistor configured to detectif the heater is being loaded by the user puffing on the device.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a proportional integralderivative (PID) control loop configured to control operatingtemperature.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a thin wall metal heatingchamber.

In some embodiments, the device comprises aerogel insulation. In someembodiments, the aerogel insulation comprises a silica aerogel withreinforcing fibers.

In some embodiments, the heater is thermal pressed, ultrasonic bonded orover-molded into a high temperature capable plastic component. In someembodiments, the heater is heat stated or heat swaged into a hightemperature capable plastic component. In some embodiments, the heateris heat swaged into a high temperature capable plastic component.

In some embodiments, the device further comprise a magnetic chargeconnector configured to connect the device to a charger.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a single button interface.

In some embodiments, the viscous vaporizable material is in a removablepod. In some embodiments, the removable pod comprises particles of theviscous vaporizable material that are less than about 2 microns. In someembodiments, the removable pod comprises the viscous vaporizablematerial consisting essentially of particle sizes that are less thanabout 2 microns.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a battery; a temperature regulator, and a singlebutton interface. An exemplary device 100 is illustrated in FIG. 1comprising a single button interface 102 for on, off, wake from sleepmechanism and a heater circuit (105, tail shown) soldered to a PCB 104and a battery 103 (e.g., a LiPo battery). As shown in FIG. 1, body outerhalves 101 snap together to hold and protect the device. In someinstances, the outer body is molded as one part. In some embodiments,the single button interface that provides mechanism for on, off and wakefrom sleep. In other embodiments, additional buttons are included forany of these functions. For example, pressing the single button for 1second turns the device on. Continuing to hold the button for 5 secondsdisables the motion-based low power standby and automatic shut-down.Alternatively, a second button may be used to disable the motion-basedlow power standby and and/or shut-down. If a user does not want thedevice to cool down while resting on a table, e.g., they can use thisoverride. In some embodiments, upon power-up, if the single button isdepressed for a very long period (>10 seconds), the device turns offagain. This is to prevent inadvertent activation while in a purse, etc.While on, pressing the button momentarily turns it off In someembodiments, a single or more than one button could report battery level(via LED blinks, for instance), change operating temperature of thedevice, or change the nominal intensity of the LED(s)—if the user is ina dark environment and does not want the light to be distracting. Thesevarious features could be triggered with one or more buttons or with thesame button by pressing it for a prescribed duration or number ofpresses.

As described herein, an electronic heater comprises a heater circuit, anoven and a printed circuit board to heat a viscous vaporizable materialto a generate an inhalable aerosol. The heater circuit may be flexible.In some embodiments, flexible heater circuits are typically etched froma copper-or constantan-clad polyimide film. In some embodiments, aflexible heater is constructed by stamping (die-cutting) a thin sheet ofconstantan or copper. In this case, the heater circuit would have to beelectrically insulated from adjacent conductive elements in theassembly, using polyimide or other suitable insulation that is stable atelevated temperatures. The heater circuit heats the attached oven whichthen heats the cartridge or active substance by thermal conduction. Theresistive heater circuit heats up as current passes through it. Heat isthen conducted from the circuit to the oven walls. Thermal conductioncontinues from the oven walls into the cartridge or active substance.Note that heat also transfers from the oven walls into the activesubstance or cartridge via convection and radiation, but most transferoccurs via conduction.

In some embodiments, the device comprises more than one button interfacefor on, off, wake from sleep mechanism and a heater circuit soldered toa PCB.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a battery; a temperature regulator, and time orsensor based standby activation configured to conserve battery power. Insome embodiments, the device comprises time or sensor based standbyactivation to conserve battery power. This may also or alternatively becalled a standby mode. The standby mode may also or alternatively becalled sleep, or sleep mode. After non-use based on time, movement orlack thereof, position (e.g. vertical), or placement in a chargingcradle, or after any combination of any of these, the device isprogrammed to convert to sleep mode (standby mode), in order to conservebattery power, at least. The device may be awoken from this standby orsleep mode by a change in any of: movement (e.g. horizontal fromvertical, vertical from horizontal, or movement indicating the user haspicked up the device), removal from the charging cradle, user touch, theuser puffing on the device, or activation by pressing any button on thedevice (or any combinations thereof). After an extended period instandby mode, the device will turn off, to be awoken and/or turned on bythe user pressing the button on the device, in some embodiments, or bythe user puffing on the device. In such an embodiment, simply moving thedevice or removing it from its charging cradle will not activate thedevice once turned off. In other embodiments, moving the device orremoving it from its charging cradle does turn on the device from off orstandby mode.

In some embodiments, standby mode conserves battery power by loweringthe regulation temperature of the device. For example, a large portionof the heat generated by the device is lost to the environment, whetheror not the user is puffing on it. So maximizing the time the devicespends in standby, and minimizing the internal temperature while it's instandby conserve power. However, when the device awakes from standby, itis desirable for it to return to the main operating temperature asquickly as possible, so as to give the impression of an uninterruptedpuffing experience to the user. So a balance must be established. Forexample, on the current electronic cartridge-based device, the mainoperating temperature is 165° C., and standby temperature is 150° C.This temperature difference is slight enough that if the user wakes thedevice from standby, by the time the user starts puffing, the heater hashad enough time to raise the temperature and the user perceives littleor no interruption in production of vapor. In some embodiments, thetemperature difference is set to be 30° C., 25° C., 20° C., 15° C., 10°C., or 5° C. between the main operating temperature and standbytemperature. In some embodiments, the temperature difference is set tobe any temperature from 30° C. to 5° C. between the main operatingtemperature and standby temperature.

In some embodiments, the battery is a disposable battery. In otherembodiments, the battery is a rechargeable battery. In certainembodiments, the rechargeable battery is a lead-acid, nickel cadmium(NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), lithium ion (Li-ion), lithium ionpolymer (Li-ion polymer or LiPo), or the like.

A rechargeable battery, storage battery, or accumulator is a type ofelectrical battery. It comprises one or more electrochemical cells, andis a type of energy accumulator. It is known as a secondary cell becauseits electrochemical reactions are electrically reversible. Rechargeablebatteries come in many different shapes and sizes, ranging from buttoncells to megawatt systems connected to stabilize an electricaldistribution network. Several different combinations of chemicals arecommonly used, including: lead-acid, nickel cadmium (NiCd), nickel metalhydride (NiMH), lithium ion (Li-ion), and lithium ion polymer (Li-ionpolymer, Li-poly, Li-Pol, LiPo, LIP, PLI or LiP).

The device is capable of creating temperatures high enough to aerosolizea product contained within the device. An exemplary device can comprisea mouthpiece and a body having a heater, an oven chamber, a LiPobattery, and a controller for maintaining the operating temperature. Auser-selected temperature, as described above, could be used as an inputto this system. In some embodiments, the temperature could be pre-set.Examples of operating temperature regulators of a device include abimetallic actuator. Alternatively, a system could be employed tomeasure the current temperature, for example, with a thermocouple sensorand compare it to a prescribed temperature, for example, with amicro-controller, and by controlling an electromechanical valve, forexample, servo or solenoid valve. A user-selected temperature, asdescribed above, the selected temperature could be used as an input tothis system. Typically, the operating temperatures of the device are nomore than 200° C.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol: a battery; a temperature regulator, and a temperaturecontrol loop. In certain embodiments provide the heater with solderedthermistor element for control loop. In certain embodiments, the devicecomprises a PID (proportional integral derivative) control loop tocontrol operating temperature. The control loop serves to preciselyregulate the desired setpoint temperature for the device. Depending onthe design and intended use of the device, the set point temperature, insome embodiments, is fixed; in other embodiments, the set pointtemperature is user-selectable. The set point can also changedynamically during device operation. For example, in standby mode theset point is lowered a certain amount. In some embodiments, the inputfor the control loop is typically a thermistor, located on or adjacentto the heater circuit. This thermistor leads to a microcontroller whichmakes A/D measurements and the resulting value is used in calculatingthe PID control variable. The control variable then sets the duty cycle(and resulting power output) of the heater circuit.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater comprising aheater circuit within said body configured to heat a viscous vaporizablematerial and generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator;wherein the heater circuit has low resistance such that a single batteryis capable of powering the device. In some embodiments, the heatercircuit is of such low resistance that a single battery may be used topower the device. In some embodiments, the heater circuit resistance ischosen such that the power output of the heater circuit is high enoughto reach the desired operating temperature, within an acceptable heat-upperiod, and such that it can withstand the loading of the system by auser puffing on the device. A rough calculation is provided by therelation: R=V 2/P, where V is the battery voltage under load, P is thedesired wattage of the heater, and R is the heater circuit resistance.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a battery; a temperature regulator; wherein theelectronic heater is sealed by a hermetic or dust seal. As illustratedin FIG. 2, an exemplary device 200 comprises a thin-walled stainlesssteel tube 210 perforated the sealed lid of the capsule (i.e., a pod).The thin-walled stainless steel tube 210 (e.g. a metallic “oven”) in theillustrated device is thermal pressed (e.g., heat staked or swaged),ultrasonic bonded or over-molded into a high temperature capable plasticcomponent. The processes create a hermetic or dust seal (air-tight seal)240, which prevents environmental dust from entering the internalchambers of the device, as well as any dust from the internal insulationmaterials from escaping the device and entering the heating chamber. Theplastic component may comprise any thermoplastic materials that providehigh temperature stability. In some embodiments, the plastic componentcomprises polyphenylene sulfide (PPS, trade name Ryton), polyetherimide(PEI, trade name Ultem), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), or the like. Incertain embodiments, the plastic component comprises PPS. PPS is usedalso for its general good moldability.

In certain embodiments, the oven is heat staked or heat swaged into ahigh temperature capable plastic component. As referring herein, withheat swaging, material is formed all the way around the perimeter of themating edge. With heat staking, there would have a few posts of thethermoplastic that insert through holes in the formed metal oven, andthen the posts are heated to form “rivets” of a sort). In certainembodiments, the oven is heat swaged into a high temperature capableplastic component. In some embodiments, the oven is bonded to theplastic component using adhesive. In certain embodiments, the adhesiveis stable at high temperatures, such that the adhesive is not soften oroff-gas. In some embodiments, the oven is joined to the plasticcomponent by mechanical mechanism, such as using a crimp threadedconnection, press fit, or the like. For any mechanical joining, in someembodiments, an o-ring is used between the two components to ensure thedust seal is created. It is important to minimize the thermal transferat this junction, since that's how a lot of heat is transferred to theouter casing of the device (and thus, lost to the environment).

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator and an aerogel insulation. Insome embodiment the aerogel insulation is an aerogel blanket. In someembodiments, the device comprises an insulation chamber 220 thatincludes an aerogel blanket (not shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 5) tomaintain efficiency and low exposed surface temperature. In someembodiments, the aerogel may be a silica aerogel with reinforcing fibers(e.g., Pyrogel 2250 flexible aerogel blanket).

As provided herein, the term, “aerogel” refers to a synthetic porousmaterial derived from a gel, in which the liquid component of the gelhas been replaced with a gas. The result is a solid with extremely lowdensity and thermal conductivity. Aerogels are good thermal insulatorsbecause they almost nullify the three methods of heat transfer(convection, conduction, and radiation). They are good conductiveinsulators because they are composed almost entirely from a gas, andgases are very poor heat conductors. Silica aerogel is especially goodbecause silica is also a poor conductor of heat (a metallic aerogel, onthe other hand, would be less effective). They are good convectiveinhibitors because air cannot circulate through the lattice. Silicaaerogel is the most common type of aerogel and the most extensivelystudied and used. It is a silica-based substance, derived from silicagel. Carbon aerogels are composed of particles with sizes in thenanometer range, covalently bonded together. They have very highporosity (over 50%, with pore diameter under 100 nm) and surface areasranging between 400-1,000 m2/g. Aerogels made with aluminium oxide areknown as alumina aerogels. These aerogels are used as catalysts,especially when “doped” with a metal different from Al. Nickel-aluminaaerogel is the most common combination.

In some embodiments, the device also include two magnets 230 (e.g.,gold-plated rare earth magnets, or the like) used as both mechanicalattachment and battery charging conduits to a charging cradle (notshown). The magnets need to strong enough to hold the device in place inthe charging cradle. In some embodiments, the magnets comprise NdFeB,grade N42. In some embodiments, the magnets have 6128 gauss of surfacefield. The pod 270, 370 is inserted into the oven, which has a polyimidethin film heater and thermistor applied to its exterior. A polyimidethin film heater is constructed of a thin, high dielectric, lightweightorganic polymer film which provides excellent tensile strength, tearresistance and dimensional stability.

Thus, provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator and a magnetic chargeconnector.

In some embodiments, the battery used in the device is a single cellLiPo battery (e.g., 18-650 size 2600 mAh lithium ion single cell or14-650 size 940 mAh lithium ion single cell) for repeated uses of thedevice. In some embodiments, the battery used for the device is othersuitable rechargeable battery with 18-650 size 2600 mAh or 14-650 size940 mAh. The device can be used for up to 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 or moreuses (depending what size of the rechargeable battery is employed). Insome embodiments, the device can be used for more than 60 uses. Thedevice can also be used for up to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 hours ormore of continuous or non-continuous use. A cartridge for use with thedevice can be disposed after each use or used for multiple uses. Thelong lasting use of a device provides the user the advantage of nothaving to service the device or recharge the battery on a regular basis.

Typically, the operating temperatures of the device are no more than200° C. Often the temperature required to aerosolize a product isbetween about 100 to 200° C. In some embodiments, the temperaturerequired to aerosolize a product is about 150° C. Once the productwithin the device has been aerosolized, the aerosolized product isprovided to a user through a mouthpiece. In many cases, an exemplarydevice is designed to emulate a smoking device, such as a cigarette, apipe or a cigar holder.

In FIGS. 3A, and 3B, the exemplary device 300 comprises a splitmouthpiece (310) design where half is removable and conforms to contourof the device. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece attaches to body withrare earth magnet. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece attaches to bodywith plastic detent or other mechanism. In FIG. 3B, the pod 370 is shownbeing inserted into the oven with the mouthpiece 310 detatched.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator, wherein the mouthpieceis integrated into the device.

In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is integrated into the device with ahinge, or other mechanism (such as a string, or the like). In certainembodiments, the mouthpiece swivels or slides away to reveal the heatingchamber. In certain embodiments, the mouthpiece is detached fully fromthe attachment mechanism for cleaning or replacement but is still linkedto the device (“removably captured”). In some embodiments, the devicealso includes magnetic charge contacts 312 and a tactile button 302 withLED-illuminated “halo” indicator. The indicator reports informationabout the state of the device. In some embodiments, a saw-tooth patternindicates that it is heating up. In some embodiments, solid patternindicates that the set point temperature has been reached and the usercan start puffing on the device. If the battery is critically low, insome embodiments, the LED indicator flashes several times (e.g., 5times) and then the devices turn off In some embodiments, while shakingthe device, the motion sensor detects this and the LED indicates currentbattery level: for example, 3 flashes for full charge, 2 flashes forpartial charge, and 1 flash for low charge. The device then resumesnormal operation. When the device is placed in a charge cradle, in someembodiments, a saw-tooth pattern indicates that it is charging. Incertain embodiments, when charging is complete, the LED turns solid. Insome embodiments, error states can also be reported: if an internalfailure is determined, the indicator flashes 10 times and the deviceturns itself off.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a detachable mouthpiece whichcan attach and/or insert into a removable pod. The mouthpiece is removedby quarter-turn to expose the removable pod. The removable pod comprisestobacco and/or other botanicals for use to generate an inhalableaerosol. The pod, in some embodiments, comprises particles less thanabout 2 microns in diameter. In some embodiments also providesvaporization devices for use with a viscous vaporizable material such asloose leaf tobacco and other botanicals (no pods).

FIG. 4 demonstrates exemplary devices (400) with a mouthpiece 410retracted from device with a push-push mechanism. This also turns thedevices on via a magnet embedded in the mouthpiece, and a hall effectsensor on the PCB. The devices include a LED indicator 460, (or thelike) and a single piece extruded aluminum outer body. In someembodiments, the LED indicator is a tri-color (RGB). In someembodiments, the LED indicator displays many colors. For example, whenheating, the indicator glows purple. Once the set point temperature isreached, it glows green. When in standby, it glows blue. If the deviceis shaken, battery indications are 3 blinks, and color determines thecharge level: green for full charge, yellow for partial, and red forlow. If the mouthpiece is removed fully from the device, the deviceimmediately stops heating and the LED indicates the currentuser-selectable temperature setting: red for high, orange for medium,yellow for low temperature. Pressing the “temp set button” revealed byremoving the mouthpiece cycles the temperature setting in firmware, andthe new setting is reflected on the LED. Upon reinserting themouthpiece, the device returns to normal heating operation. Whilecharging, the LED is solid orange. When charging is complete, it turnssolid green. Similar to the other embodiments, the LED can also reporterror states by flashing and/or distinct color of flashes. The colorsdescribed above may be changed to any colors in accordance with thepractice of this invention.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a mouthpiece that retractsfrom said device with a push-push mechanism. In some embodiments, thepush-push mechanism also turns the device on via a magnet embedded inthe mouthpiece and a hall effect sensor on the PCB (printed circuitboard). One of ordinary skill in the art would readily recognize othersuitable mechanism to turn the device on with suitable sensor.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator; and a push-pushmechanism configured to toggle the mouthpiece between a retracted and an“on” position. An internal view of the exemplary device of FIG. 4 isshown in FIG. 5. In such embodiment comprising a push-push mechanism,the device includes a vaporization chamber lid 576 (opposite of themouthpiece 510). The device comprises a deep-drawn stainless steelheating chamber 524 (“oven”), with polyimide thin film circuit heaterapplied. A push-push mechanism for retracting mouthpiece consists ofcompression spring 513, leaf spring 512, and stainless steel tube 511attached to the mouthpiece 510, with a catch groove 534 and a toggleslider 509. Reed switchlhall effect sensor 533 is incorporated to detectif mouthpiece is inserted (device runs off). To extend the mouthpieceinto the “on” position, the user presses on the mouthpiece 510. Themouthpiece is attached to the tube 511, so this action compresses thecompression spring 513. This action also causes the leaf spring 512 toflex away from the axis of the tube and onto the outer diameter of thetoggle slider 509. When the user then releases the mouthpiece, thecompression spring pushes the mouthpiece & tube sub-assembly outwardfrom the device. The angled lip of the leaf spring catches on the toggleslider, causing the slider to traverse the tube until it reaches ashoulder on the tube. At this point, the mouthpiece continues to extendout of the device, and the leaf spring now wipes along the toggle sliderand continues along the shoulder of the outer diameter of the tube,which is of equivalent diameter and thus poses no resistance. When thecatch groove of the tube intersects with the lip of the leaf spring, themouthpiece stops, and is now in the extended, “on” position. Pressingthe mouthpiece from the “on” position uses the push-push mechanism tomove the mouthpiece to a retracted position. The push-push mechanism,thus, is configured to toggle the mouthpiece between an “on” position oran extended position such that the mouthpiece is extended from the bodyof the device, and a retracted position. In some embodiments, in theretracted position, the mouthpiece is fully within the body of thedevice. In some embodiments, in the retracted position, the mouthpieceis fully within the body of the device but is exposed at the open end ofthe device. In some embodiments, in the retracted position, themouthpiece is substantially within the body of the device such that aportion of the mouthpiece extends beyond the end out of the body of thedevice.

Many devices use a temperature regulation scheme in that the temperatureregulator (bimetallic discs or other regulator) are located in closeproximity to the area where temperature is most critical (at the oven).See temperature select button 535, PCB 504, O-ring seal 526 to controlpotential aerogel dusting, and insulation chamber 525 to contain aerogelblanket. Related art has typically located the temperature-sensitivecomponent at the flow valve, which can be easily influenced by the cooltemperature of expanding fuel gas and has minimally intimate contactwith the vaporizing chamber. Examples of related devices and methods aredescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/485,168, U.S. Pat. No.4,819,665, U.S. Pat. No. 4,793,365, U.S. Pat. No. 5,027,836 and PCTApplication WO 2006/082571. The regulation scheme of an exemplary devicemay be tuned to a specific temperature by a simple twist of the oven.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said bodyconfigured to heat a viscous vaporizable material and generate aninhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator; and a button-operatedtemperature selection with a visual indicator, an audible indicatorand/or a vibration indicator. In some embodiments, the device comprisesa button-operated temperature selection with visual, audible indicator,and/or other sensory output (e.g. vibration). In some embodiments, atactile (mechanical) switch is used as input to a microcontroller,which, via its software, indicates the change to the user (e.g., byvisual LED, audible, vibration, or the like), and changes the set pointtemperature of the device. The switch can also be capacitive, resistive,or the like.

In some embodiments, the vaporization device comprises a thin wall metalheating chamber (or oven chamber). Thin walls allow for low thermal massand thus fast startup. When the device use the viscous vaporizablematerial directly without including them in a pod (or a cartridge), theterms, “heating chamber”, “oven chamber” and “vaporization chamber” areused interchangeably. For the device including a pod or a cartridge, theterms, “heating chamber” and “oven chamber” are used interchangeably.

Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosolcomprising: a mouthpiece; a body; a vaporization chamber; an electronicheater within said body configured to heat a viscous vaporizablematerial and generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator; anda magnetic lid configured to cover the vaporization chamber. In theexemplary devices 600 of FIG. 6, an exemplary magnetically-attachedvaporization chamber lid 676 is shown. The lid 676 is nominally recessedentirely into the body of the device. This is to prevent inadvertentremoval of the lid in the user's pocket, purse, etc. To remove the lid,the user presses a finger against one side of the oval-shaped lid. Theunderside of the lid is chamfered, such that this allows the oppositeside of the lid to pivot up. Two rare earth magnets are embedded oneither side of the lid, along its short axis. Two mating magnets areembedded in the body of the device at corresponding points. Thesemagnets together form a “hinge” around which the lid can swivel. Oncethe lid is swiveled up, it is relatively easy to overcome the magneticforce and remove the lid entirely, allowing access to the vaporizationchamber. In some embodiments, the vaporization chamber lid is attachedby other mechanism such as screw-on, a snap on, or the like. Thus, insome embodiments, the devices comprise a tilting lid using magnetic orsnap attachments for the lid to stay in its closed position to preventaccidental opening. Provided herein is a device for generating aninhalable aerosol comprising: a mouthpiece; a body; an electronic heaterwithin said body configured to heat a viscous vaporizable material andgenerate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator; and a tiltinglid comprising a magnetic attachment or a snap attachment configured tomaintain the lid in its closed position and/or configured to preventaccidental opening.

One of ordinary skill in the art would readily employ energy supplysources to charge battery. For example, in FIG. 7, a USB charger 724with a USB charge cable 734 are shown. In some embodiments, the energysupply source is a wall mount charger. In some embodiments, the energysupply source is a car charger. In some embodiments, the energy supplysource is a portable charger. In certain embodiments, the energy supplysources include solar powered, wind powered or other green energypowered chargers.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a thermally conductive shellto distribute excess heat and maintain low exposed surface temperature.In some embodiments, the thermally conductive shell is made of materialshaving low specific heat but high thermal conductivity. In someembodiments, the configuration of materials in the thermally conductiveshell is such that the temperature of the shell is below 140 degrees F.,below 130 degrees F., below 120 degrees F., below 110 degrees F., below100 degrees F., at or below 140 degrees F., at or below 130 degrees F.,at or below 120 degrees F., at or below 110 degrees F., at or below 100degrees F., at or below 98.6 degrees F., at or below 90 degrees F., ator about room temperature, at or below about 140 degrees F., at or belowabout 140 degrees F., at or below about 130 degrees F., at or belowabout 120 degrees F., at or below about 110 degrees F., at or belowabout 100 degrees F., at or below a temperature at which skin will burnafter 2 seconds of touch, at or below a temperature at which skin willburn after 5 seconds of touch, at or below a temperature at which skinwill burn after 10 seconds of touch, and/or about at room temperature.This combination means heat will spread quickly, but when held there isnot much energy to be absorbed into the hand. In some embodiments, thethermally conductive shell is made of aluminum, or the like. Providedherein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprising: amouthpiece; a body; an electronic heater within said body configured toheat a viscous vaporizable material and generate an inhalable aerosol; athermally conductive shell configured to distribute excess heat andmaintain a low exposed surface temperature; and a temperature regulator.

The internals view of the exemplary device charged by a USB charger isshown in FIG. 8. The device includes a charger base 827 (an exemplaryUSB charger) comprising a rare earth magnet charge base interface 824.The battery 803 (e.g., a Li-ion battery) is charged with the help of aflex PCB 804 continues down to make contact with battery terminal Alsoshown for the device are button 802, accelerometer 816, aerogel 814 andthermistor 815 to monitor and precisely control vaporizationtemperature. The mouthpiece is attached to the body from points 844 and845. Various embodiments of mouthpiece as described herein or known toone of ordinary skilled in the art may be used.

Any material that is capable of being aerosolized and inhaled by a usermay be incorporated into a device or cartridge of the invention as wouldbe obvious to one skilled in the art. It is of particular interest thatthe material provides an experience to the user either in terms oftactile response in the respiratory tract, or in terms of visualfeedback regarding the exhalation of the inhaled material. For example,many materials have be contemplated for use with the present inventionincluding, but not limited to, those containing tobacco, natural orartificial flavorants, coffee grounds or coffee beans, mint, chamomile,lemon, honey, tea leaves, cocoa, and other non-tobacco alternativesbased on other botanicals. A device or cartridge of the invention canalso be compatible for use with pharmaceutical compounds or syntheticcompounds, either for pharmaceutical or pleasurable use. Any suchcompound which can be vaporized (or volatized) at a relatively lowtemperature and without harmful degradation products can be suitable foruse with a cartridge or device of the invention. Examples of compoundsinclude, but are not limited to, menthol, caffeine, taurine, andnicotine.

Active elements contained in botanicals vaporize at differenttemperatures. The device can be calibrated to establish a single stabletemperature, intended for vaporizing specific products, for example. Acontroller can also be used to select a variety of temperature settings.The user would choose which setting based on the type of cartridge used.The controller can also affect a desired temperature mechanically, suchas by changing flow rate of the valve, or electronically, such as byelectromechanical valve and micro-controller intermediary. For example,to change the operating temperature of a device of the invention, theoven chamber can be moved in respect to the temperature regulator, suchas bimetallic discs.

Here, tobacco or tobacco material is defined as any combination ofnatural and synthetic material that can be vaporized for pleasure ormedicinal use. In one embodiment of the present invention, a cartridgecan be prepared using cured tobacco, glycerin, and flavorings. Thoseskilled in the art of tobacco product manufacture are familiar withthese and other ingredients used for cigarettes, cigars, and the like.The cartridge can be produced by chopping tobacco into fine pieces (forexample, less than 2 mm diameter, preferably less than 1 mm), adding theother ingredients, and mixing until even consistency was achieved. Inanother embodiment, a cartridge can be prepared by processing the fillmaterial into an even paste-like consistency (for example, particle sizeless than 1 mm), which facilitates the processing of filling thecartridge, for example, by use of an auger filler, peristaltic pump or apiston pump.

Preferably the material for use with a device of the invention orcontained within a cartridge of the invention comprises at least one ofa vapor-forming medium and a medium for providing a tactile response ina respiratory tract of a user. The aerosolized product from the materialinserted into a device can be a combination of vapor phase gases as wellas small droplets which have condensed out of vapor phase and remainsuspended in the gas/air mixture (the latter constitutes the visibleportion of the inhaled substance).

Propylene glycol (PG), glycerin, or a combination of both can be used asvapor-forming medium. Other vapor-forming media can be used with acartridge and device of the invention. The vapor-forming medium servesto produce a visual vapor, such as a smoke-like vapor, when heated. Thisvapor can be visualized both before inhalation and during exhalation ofthe medium. PG has some advantages as compared to glycerin alone, as itexhibits a much higher vapor pressure at equivalent temperature andallows the device to operate at a lower temperature. Reducing theoperating temperature conserves energy, and potentially can furtherimprove the health benefits of using this system.

The user is prevented from touching the hot internal elements bysurrounding insulating features. An exemplary device can includeinsulation for keeping the user from contacting the necessarily hotportion of the device. While greater thermal insulating ability ispreferable so that the device performs with the best efficiencypossible, an important aspect for the user is to perceive a relativelycool surface temperature. Various strategies can be employed to addressthe perception of the user regarding the temperature of the device. Thedevice may be wrapped in a thermal insulating material that has enoughdurability for external use. Materials for this purpose have low thermalconductivity and low thermal capacity (specific heat). The combinationof these properties can allow little heat to be transferred to thefingers of the user. Examples of materials with low thermal conductivityand capacity include some polymers and ceramics. A separate strategy isto use standoff features that keep the user from touching the highertemperature area directly. This can also minimize the contact area ofthe user's fingers and the device to additionally reduce perceived heat.The thermal conductivity and specific heat of the standoff featuresshould be as low as possible.

Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shownand described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the artthat such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerousvariations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilledin the art without departing from the invention. It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention describedherein can be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended thatthe following claims define the scope of the invention and that methodsand structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents becovered thereby.

What is claimed is:
 1. A hand-held device for generating an inhalablevapor comprising: an elongate body having a distal end and a proximalend; a vaporization chamber at a proximal end of the elongate bodyconfigured to hold a vaporizable material therein; a heater incommunication with the vaporization chamber, wherein the heater isconfigured to heat the vaporizable material by combined convection andconduction to generate an inhalable vapor; a detachable lid over thevaporization chamber, wherein the detachable lid is screwed onto thevaporization chamber; a mouthpiece, wherein the mouthpiece is movablefrom a retracted position when not in use to an extended position awayfrom the elongate body for use; a controller configured to allow a userto select an operating temperature of the vaporization chamber from aplurality of temperature settings between 100° C. and 200° C.; avibrational indicator configured to vibrate to report information aboutthe state of the device, including indicating when the device is turnedon, turned off, and when the device has reached the operatingtemperature; and one or more light-emitting diode (LED) indicatorsconfigured to indicate when the device is turned on and when the devicehas reached the operating temperature.
 2. The device of claim 1, whereinthe mouthpiece is configured to swivel.
 3. The device of claim 1,wherein the controller is configured to automatically allow thetemperature of the heater to cool to below the operating temperaturebased on time or lack of use.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein theintensity of the one or more light-emitting diode (LED) indicators isadjustable.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or morelight-emitting diode (LED) indicators are configured to display multiplecolors
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the vaporization chamber isconfigured to hold a loose-leaf botanical material.
 7. The device ofclaim 1, wherein the detachable lid has an oval profile.
 8. The deviceof claim 1, wherein an underside of the lid facing the vaporizationchamber is chamfered.
 9. The device of claim 1, further comprising asingle button interface, wherein the single button is configured tocontrol on, off and temperature setting for the device.
 10. The deviceof claim 1, further comprising an outer shell configured to distributeexcess heat.
 11. The device of claim 1, further comprising a USBcharger.
 12. A hand-held device for generating an inhalable vaporcomprising: an elongate body having a distal end and a proximal end avaporization chamber at a proximal end of the elongate body configuredto hold a vaporizable material therein; a heater in communication withthe vaporization chamber, wherein the heater is configured to heat thevaporizable material by convection and conduction to generate aninhalable vapor; an oval detachable lid over the vaporization chamber,wherein the detachable cover is screwed onto the vaporization chamber; amouthpiece, wherein the mouthpiece is configured to swivel; a controllerconfigured to allow a user to select an operating temperature of thevaporization chamber from a plurality of temperature settings between100° C. and 200° C., further wherein the controller is configured toautomatically allow the temperature of the heater to cool to below theoperating temperature based on time or lack of use; a vibrationalindicator configured to vibrate to report information about the state ofthe device, including indicating when the device is turned on, turnedoff, and when the device has reached the operating temperature; and oneor more light-emitting diode (LED) indicators configured to indicatewhen the device is turned on and when the device has reached theoperating temperature.
 13. The device of claim 1, wherein the intensityof the one or more light-emitting diode (LED) indicators is adjustable.14. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more light-emitting diode(LED) indicators are configured to display multiple colors
 15. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein the vaporization chamber is configured tohold a loose-leaf botanical material.
 16. The device of claim 1, whereinan underside of the lid facing the vaporization chamber is chamfered.17. The device of claim 1, further comprising a single button interface,wherein the single button is configured to control on, off andtemperature setting for the device.
 18. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising an outer shell configured to distribute excess heat.
 19. Thedevice of claim 1, further comprising a USB charger.
 20. A hand-helddevice for generating an inhalable vapor comprising: an elongate bodyhaving a distal end and a proximal end; a vaporization chamber at aproximal end of the elongate body configured to hold a loose-leafvaporizable material therein; a heater in communication with thevaporization chamber, wherein the heater is configured to heat thevaporizable material by combined convection and conduction to generatean inhalable vapor; an oval detachable lid over the vaporizationchamber, wherein the oval detachable lid is screwed onto thevaporization chamber; a mouthpiece, wherein the mouthpiece is movablefrom a retracted position when not in use to an extended position awayfrom the elongate body for use; a controller configured to allow a userto select an operating temperature of the vaporization chamber from aplurality of temperature settings between 100° C. and 200° C., furtherwherein the controller is configured to automatically allow thetemperature of the heater to cool to below the operating temperaturebased on time or lack of use; a vibrational indicator configured tovibrate to report information about the state of the device, includingindicating when the device is turned on, turned off, and when the devicehas reached the operating temperature; and one or more light-emittingdiode (LED) indicators configured to display multiple colors to indicatewhen the device is turned on and when the device has reached theoperating temperature.